PNNL

Keerti S. Kappagantula, a scientist in PNNL’s Energy Processes and Materials Division, was featured in ASM International’s Women in Engineering Series.

The feature appeared in the April issue of ASM’s Advanced Materials & Processes magazine. The series introduces leading materials scientists from around the world who happen to be females.

Kappagantula is part of a team that focuses on the emerging approach of Solid Phase Processing—or SPP, a disruptive approach to metals manufacturing that can be better, yet cheaper, than melt-based methods typically associated with metals manufacturing. SPP is poised to provide a distinctive competitive advantage to U.S. manufacturing.

“In high school, I wanted to become a writer. But after I understood the beauty of calculus, my focus became engineering,” says Kappagantula. “Now, a major part of my job as a scientist is research communications. So, I get to be a writer after all.

Kappagantula joined PNNL in January 2019 and was previously an assistant professor at Ohio University, where she developed a wide range of materials including polymer nanocomposites, conductive alloys, 3D printed ceramics, and explosive energetics. She obtained her Ph.D in mechanical engineering in 2014 from Texas Tech University.

ASM International is the preeminent association for engaging and connecting materials professionals and their organizations to the resources necessary to solve problems, improve outcomes, and advance society.